Play Like a Kid

How to Unplug and Reconnect on Global Day of Unplugging

Mar 03, 2025

A dad playing in a cozy pillow fort with his kids. The fort is made of blankets and cushions, softly lit to create an inviting atmosphere. The dad is smiling and engaged with his children, who are naturally playing with books and small toys inside the fort.

There was a time for all of us when an old cardboard box was a spaceship. When the couch cushions weren’t just furniture, they were stepping stones over lava. When a stick found on the ground could be a magic wand, a sword, or the key to a secret treasure chest buried in the backyard.

Then, at some point, life got busy. Responsibilities took over. And the kind where you lost track of time, where your imagination ran wild, faded into the background.

But here’s the thing: That part of you, the kid who could turn anything into an adventure, is still in there. And Global Day of Unplugging is the perfect excuse to bring them back.

What Is Global Day of Unplugging?

Imagine hitting pause on screens—just for 24 hours.

No notifications.

No doom-scrolling.

No "just one more episode" before bed.

Just real-world connection, play, and the kind of presence that’s harder to come by in a world where we spend, on average, three months per year looking at screens.

That’s what Global Day of Unplugging is all about.

This year, the movement celebrating its 16th anniversary is growing from small, screen-free gatherings into a worldwide initiative backed by organizations, celebrities, and digital wellness advocates.

The date this year is March 7th at sundown, and is centered around the theme, "Unplug on Purpose," takes things even further by challenging participants not just to turn off their devices, but to use that time to do something meaningful.

For parents, that means one thing: This is your chance to give your kids—and yourself—something better than screen time.

That’s where The Screen-Free Dad comes in.

At The Screen-Free Dad, I often discuss unplugging. Not because screens are the enemy but because stepping away from them opens the door to something better: more connection, more laughter, and more of the moments that actually stick with our kids long after childhood is over.

That’s exactly why this collaboration with Global Day of Unplugging makes so much sense.

Their mission isn’t just about putting down devices for a day—it’s about reclaiming human connection in a world that’s increasingly designed to pull us apart.

And if you’re a parent wondering how to make this day count, here’s the secret:

Stop thinking like an adult and start playing like a kid.

The Challenge: “What Do We Actually Do?”

I get it. Turning off screens sounds great in theory. But when you’ve got kids asking, “Now what?” ten minutes into the day, it’s easy to feel stuck.

We’re so used to managing play that we forget how to actually be in it. That’s why this guide isn’t just a list of things to do. It’s an invitation to step into your kids' world, follow their lead, and play like you did before emails, deadlines, and never-ending to-do lists took over.

it’s time to build forts, tell stories, explore, create, and let go of the idea that everything has to have a purpose beyond fun.

Because here’s the truth:

Play is the purpose.

And when we let ourselves fully engage in it, that’s when the best memories happen.

Warning: This is a long post, but it’s not meant to be read all at once. Feel free to jump around and find what works best for you. Make sure to check out the free downloads at the end!

Ready? Let’s jump in and relearn how to play like a kid and explore how to make Global Day of Unplugging a fun, screen-free experience your family will love.

The Importance of Playing Like a Kid (The Nitty-Gritty)

Parenting today often feels like a balancing act between supervision and distraction. We set up the activities, make sure no one’s about to swallow a crayon, and then check out (mentally or physically) because, well, we’ve got a million things on our plates.

Here’s the truth: Kids don’t just want us nearby—they want us fully present.

They don’t need a supervisor keeping watch. They need a playmate jumping in.

When we shift from watching play to engaging in it, we’re not just making memories. We’re giving our kids (and ourselves) something deeper: stronger connections, better emotional health, and the kind of creativity that gets buried under the weight of adulthood.

And the science backs it up.

Play isn’t just something kids do—it’s something they need.

According to research from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), play is essential for healthy brain development. It shapes the emotional, social, and cognitive skills kids will rely on for life. Play is how they learn, process emotions, and make sense of the world around them.

But play isn’t just for kids.

When parents fully engage, we activate those same areas of our own brains.

Play lowers stress, strengthens emotional resilience, and deepens our connection with our kids. it’s not a break from parenting.

it’s one of the most important parts of it.

The same research also shows that engaged play with a caregiver strengthens emotional bonds, enhances brain development, and improves a child’s ability to handle stress and solve problems.

Playing with your child is so much more than entertaining them. it’s about building a relationship with them in a way that no screen, toy, or structured activity could ever do. And the benefits go far beyond fun—when you actively play with your kids, you’re helping them develop essential emotional, cognitive, and social skills that will last a lifetime.

Here’s why it matters:

1. Emotional Development: Helping Kids Express and Regulate Feelings

Kids use play to process big emotions, whether it’s celebrating a superhero victory or comforting a stuffed animal. When parents actively participate, they help reinforce emotional regulation and resilience, which:

Encourages emotional expression: Kids act out feelings in a safe, low-pressure way.
Builds resilience: Play allows children to navigate challenges and setbacks.
Provides emotional support: Parental involvement helps kids feel seen and validated.

How Parents Can Help:

Join their world. If your child is acting out a scenario, engage with curiosity—ask, “What’s happening next?”
Validate their emotions. Use play to help them name their feelings: “Your stuffed animal looks sad. What can we do to help?”
Model problem-solving. If a game becomes frustrating, guide them through managing their emotions: “Let’s take a deep breath and try again.”

Source: PubMed Central

2. Cognitive Growth: Boosting Problem-Solving and Creativity

Games like “the floor is lava” aren’t just fun, they’re mental workouts that help kids think critically and adapt to new situations, and help kids:

Develop problem-solving skills: Play teaches kids how to navigate obstacles.
Enhance creativity: Open-ended play encourages imagination and innovation.
Strengthen adaptability: Kids learn to adjust their approach when faced with new challenges.

How Parents Can Help:

Introduce new challenges to keep kids thinking.
Ask open-ended questions like, “What happens if we try this?”
Encourage creative problem-solving by letting them experiment with different ideas.

Source: Commonwealth Pediatrics

3. Social Skills: Teaching Cooperation and Conflict Resolution

Play isn’t always smooth, kids disagree on rules, take turns, and work through conflicts. But these moments are valuable lessons in teamwork and communication, which:

Teaches patience: Kids learn to wait their turn and follow rules.
Encourages cooperation: Playing together builds teamwork and compromise.
Develops conflict resolution skills: Play provides practice in problem-solving and negotiation.

How Parents Can Help:

Model fair play and good sportsmanship.
Guide kids through conflict resolution by helping them talk things out.
Praise teamwork and communication rather than just focusing on winning.

Source: AAP Publications

Make the Most of Global Day of Unplugging

Ok, let’s pause for a second. We’ve talked about the science, the benefits, and why playing with your kids matters, but let’s not lose sight of why we’re here.

We’re talking about Global Day of Unplugging—a full 24 hours without screens. No TV, no tablets, no scrolling. Just real, uninterrupted time with your kids.

So what does that actually look like?

Don’t worry, it doesn’t involve scheduling every minute or stressing over the “perfect” activity. it means being present, saying yes to play, and stepping into their world, whatever that may look like.

But let’s be real, 24 hours is a long time if you’re not used to unplugging. If you’re wondering what do we actually do all day?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

That’s exactly why I’ve put together this list.

Here are 10 engaging, screen-free activities to help you make Global Day of Unplugging an unforgettable adventure.

Let’s get started.

1. Build a Fort

A few blankets and chairs can turn into anything. A castle, a rocket ship, or a secret clubhouse with VIP-only access.

Remember: Forts aren’t just cozy, they’re creativity in action.

What to Do: Let your kids take the lead in designing their hideaway. Will it have tunnels? A hidden entrance? A no-grown-ups-allowed rule?

Why it’s Awesome:

Creativity & Problem-Solving: Figuring out how to keep it standing = hands-on engineering (North Shore Pediatric Therapy).
Fine Motor Skills: Lifting, folding, and securing materials builds coordination.
Sense of Ownership: When kids build something themselves, they take pride in it.

Make it Even Better:

Add fairy lights, pillows, and snacks for next-level coziness.
Stay inside with them. Read, tell stories, or just enjoy the moment together.

2. Get Crafty

Give a kid some markers, glue, and a pile of paper, and suddenly they’re an inventor, an artist, or a mad scientist creating their next masterpiece.

Remember: Crafting isn’t about perfection, it’s about turning imagination into something real.

What to Do: Set up a creative space with whatever materials you have, crayons, cardboard, stickers, old magazines. Let kids take the lead, whether they have a specific project in mind or just want to experiment.

Why it’s Awesome:

Self-Expression: Art helps kids process emotions and tell stories in a visual way.
Fine Motor Skills: Cutting, gluing, and drawing improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination. (Scholastic)
Cognitive Flexibility: Open-ended crafting teaches kids to experiment, adapt, and solve problems creatively. Research shows that hands-on art activities help build emotional resilience and critical thinking skills.

Make it Even Better:

Ask about their creation: “Tell me about it!” instead of “What is it?”
Avoid correcting or “fixing” their work because art is about exploration, not precision.
Display their work proudly on the fridge, in a frame, or as part of a homemade “gallery.”

3. Dive into a Board Game

There’s something timeless about gathering around a board game. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of rolling dice or the thrill of a well-planned strategy.

Remember: The shared moments of laughter and friendly competition that make it great.

What to Do: Pick a game that suits your child’s age. Candy Land for younger kids, Uno for quick fun, Catan for a deeper challenge. The goal isn’t just to play, it’s to create an experience you’ll all remember.

Why it’s Awesome:

Strategic Thinking: Games encourage planning, problem-solving, and decision-making (Child Development Clinic).
Social Skills: Turn-taking, rule-following, and handling wins (and losses) build patience and respect.
Focus & Attention Span: Unlike digital games, board games require deep thinking and sustained engagement. Studies show that playing them helps children develop emotional regulation and cooperative skills.

Make it Even Better:

Let them tweak the rules. Sometimes House Rules make the best memories.
Model good sportsmanship. Winning isn’t everything (and neither is holding a grudge over Monopoly).
If the mood shifts from fun to frustration, pivot. The goal is to connect, not compete.

4. Create an Imaginary World

One minute, you’re a parent standing in the living room. The next, your child hands you a wooden spoon and declares, “You’re the royal chef, and the king wants rainbow spaghetti!”

Remember: You don’t have to do anything crazy with this. Just follow your kids' lead; they are the experts here.

What to Do: Let your child pick the scenario, pirates hunting treasure, superheroes saving the day, or chefs running the world’s wackiest restaurant. Use costumes, props, or just your best dramatic voice to bring the story to life.

Why it’s Awesome:

Language Development: Storytelling boosts vocabulary and communication skills.
Emotional Exploration: Pretend play helps kids process big emotions in a safe way—whether they’re a brave knight or a mischievous villain (Therapy Focus).
Problem-Solving & Creativity: Making up stories teaches flexibility and creative thinking, skills that translate into real-life challenges.

Make it Even Better:

Say yes to their ideas: if they say you’re a talking dog, commit to the role.
Introduce a plot twist: what if the superhero loses their powers?
Use everyday objects: a mop is a wizard’s staff, a laundry basket is a spaceship.

5. Cook Together

Cooking with kids is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes results in pancakes that resemble abstract art.

Remember: Food made together, tastes so much better.

What to Do: Choose a simple recipe, such as pancakes, homemade pizza, or fruit smoothies, and assign tasks based on the children's age (measuring, stirring, and taste testing are very important).

Why it’s Awesome:

Math & Science Skills: Measuring = fractions, mixing = chemistry, baking = patience. Research shows that cooking helps kids develop problem-solving skills and boosts early math comprehension (HealthyChildren.org).
Responsibility: Following a recipe teaches patience, sequencing, and independence.
Sensory Learning: Cooking engages all five senses, making it a powerful learning experience.

Make it Even Better:

Let go of perfection: if the cookies are lumpy or an eggshell sneaks in, who cares?
Narrate the process: ask “Why do you think the pancake bubbles?”
Make it a tradition: Friday DIY pizza night? Sunday pancake morning? Kids love rituals.

6. Go on an Adventure Walk

A walk is just a walk, until you turn it into an adventure.

Remember: Going on a walk is one of the easiest ways to unplug. Step outside. But instead of a routine stroll, turn it into a quest, a scavenger hunt, a nature expedition, or a secret mission.

What to Do:

Scavenger Hunt: Find a red leaf, a heart-shaped rock, or something that makes noise.
Explorer Mode: Pretend you’re discovering a new land—what should you name it?
Sensory Walk: Stop to listen for birds, feel tree bark, or notice how the air smells.

Why it’s Awesome:

Physical Activity: Running, climbing, and exploring build coordination and endurance (Wild About Here).
Curiosity & Observation: Kids learn to notice small details in their surroundings. Studies show that time in nature enhances cognitive function and emotional well-being.
Mindfulness: Slowing down and paying attention teaches kids to appreciate the present moment.

Make it Even Better:

Ask open-ended questions: "What do you think that squirrel is doing?"
Make up a story: “This tree is actually a secret portal to…”
Bring a journal: sketching or writing about discoveries makes it even more memorable.

7. Read Aloud and Act it Out

A book is just a book, until you bring it to life. Maybe the main character suddenly has a silly accent. Maybe the quiet bedtime story turns into a full-on stage production with costumes and props.

Remember: When reading becomes interactive, kids don’t just listen, they experience the story.

What to Do: Pick a favorite book (or a new one) and turn it into an event:

Take Turns Reading: Let them “be” one of the characters while you narrate.
Use Different Voices: A grumpy bear, a tiny mouse, a dramatic villain—go big!
Act it Out: Move around, make sound effects, even grab props to bring the story to life.

Why it’s Awesome:

Literacy & Language Development: Reading out loud expands vocabulary and improves comprehension. Studies show that kids who engage in interactive reading have stronger literacy outcomes (Canton Public Library).
Imagination: Acting out stories helps kids visualize narratives, turning books into real adventures.
Confidence: Performing—even just at home—builds self-expression and public speaking skills.

Make it Even Better:

Let Them Change the Story. What if the Big Bad Wolf was actually friendly?
Turn it Into a Puppet Show. Use stuffed animals or make simple sock puppets.
Make it a Habit. Pick a weekly “story theater” night where the whole family joins in.

8. Engage in a Simple Science Experiment

To a kid, science is magic with better explanations, and sometimes, even better messes.

Remember: There’s nothing quite like the thrill of What happens if we try this?

What to Do: Pick a simple experiment and let curiosity take the lead:

Baking Soda & Vinegar Volcano: A classic explosion of bubbly fun.
Floating & Sinking Objects: Test different objects in a bowl of water to discover why some float while others sink?

Why it’s Awesome:

Critical Thinking: Kids learn to form hypotheses, observe results, and adjust their thinking, which are key problem-solving skills.
STEM Learning: Hands-on science turns abstract concepts into real experiences. Research shows that experiential learning builds a deeper understanding of scientific principles. (Commonwealth Pediatrics)
Patience & Focus: Some experiments take time, teaching delayed gratification and observation skills.

Make it Even Better:

Encourage Wild Guesses. “What do you think will happen if we add more vinegar?” No answer is wrong. It’s all just part of the fun.
Let Kids Lead. Even if they think they know the answer, let them test it for themselves.
Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome. Even if the experiment fails, it’s still a discovery. (And sometimes, the biggest messes make the best memories.)

9. Host a Family Talent Show

Somewhere in your house, your kid has a hidden talent just waiting for the perfect audience. Maybe they’ve been secretly practicing their best knock-knock jokes, or maybe they’ve got an interpretive dance routine inspired by their favorite superhero.

Remember: The goal is participation not perfection

What to Do: Set up a “stage” (aka, the living room) and let each family member prepare a short act. Anything goes:

Singing, dancing, playing an instrument
Magic tricks, joke-telling, or poetry readings
Lip-sync battles, juggling, or even shadow puppets

Why it’s Awesome:

Confidence-Building: Performing in front of family boosts self-esteem in a safe and supportive space (Action For Healthy Kids).
Self-Expression: Gives kids a chance to showcase their unique interests and skills, even the totally weird ones.
Social Connection: Laughter, applause, and encouragement make this a bonding experience for the whole family. Studies show that shared play and creative expression strengthen parent-child relationships.

Make it Even Better:

Go All In. Wear costumes, set up a “judges’ panel,” or make DIY “tickets” for the event.
Perform Together. If your child is nervous, join them in a parent-child duet (even if it’s off-key). This will create instant core memories.
Celebrate Every Act. Whether it’s a flawless magic trick or a two-second somersault, cheer just as loudly.

10. Write and Illustrate a Story Together

Every kid has a story inside them. Sometimes it’s about a superhero squirrel, sometimes it’s about a time-traveling taco, and sometimes… well, sometimes it makes absolutely no sense, but that’s what makes it brilliant.

Remember: Writing and illustrating a story together isn’t just about creating a book, it’s about creating a world, together. And when kids see their ideas come to life on paper, it’s pure magic.

What to Do:

Start with a sentence. Something simple like “Once upon a time, a penguin found a mysterious map...” and let each person take turns adding to it.
Illustrate it! Draw pictures, cut out magazine clippings, or even turn it into a comic strip.
Make it a “real” book. Staple the pages together, make a cover, and give it an official title (something like “The Epic Adventures of Captain Pancake”).

Why it’s Awesome:

Creativity & Imagination: Storytelling is how kids process the world and explore their ideas (Yoremi Kids).
Teamwork: Creating something together teaches kids to collaborate and problem-solve, ask questions like, "Wait, does Captain Pancake need a sidekick?"
Cognitive Development: Writing and illustrating strengthen language skills, narrative thinking, and fine motor coordination, all of which are essential for early literacy. Studies also show that storytelling activities help children develop sequencing skills and expand their vocabulary.

Make it Even Better:

Encourage Them to Take the Lead. If your kid wants to turn the story into a mystery, a comedy, or a full-on epic saga, let them.
Act it Out. Once the book is finished, put on a family play version of the story.
Make it a Tradition. Start a family storybook collection and write a new one every month.

Making Screen-Free Play a Habit Beyond Global Day of Unplugging

Unplugging for 24 hours is a challenge, but what if it became a habit?

The truth is, one screen-free day can be refreshing, but regularly unplugging can be transformative. Kids don’t just need one day of undivided attention. They need consistent moments when screens don’t compete for time, play isn’t rushed, and connection comes first.

So, instead of letting the magic of Global Day of Unplugging end when the clock strikes midnight, use it as a launchpad for more screen-free time all year long.

Ideas for Keeping the Momentum Going:

Make it a Weekly Tradition

Establish a “Screen-Free Saturday” or “Tech-Free Tuesday” as a set time each week where everyone unplugs, no excuses.
Keep it simple: no need for elaborate plans. The key is consistency.

Create a “Boredom Box”

Write down fun activity ideas (build a fort, go on a nature walk, invent a new board game) and let kids pick one at random when boredom strikes.
Let them contribute ideas, too—kids are far more likely to engage when they feel ownership.
Check out our free Boredom Box guide at the end of the post.

Prioritize Daily Playtime (Even If it’s Just 10 Minutes)

Unplugging doesn’t have to be an all-day event. Even 10-15 minutes of fully present, screen-free time each day strengthens bonds and builds lasting memories.
it can be as simple as telling a bedtime story, playing a quick round of tag, or doodling together after dinner.

Reflect on the Experience

Ask kids, “What was your favorite part of unplugging?”
Encourage them to choose one activity they want to keep doing regularly—and make it a priority.

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate screens; it’s to create balance. We want to show kids that fun, connection, and creativity don’t need a Wi-Fi signal.

The more often they see this, the more they’ll seek it out on their own.

Because at the end of the day, the best moments of childhood aren’t the ones spent staring at a screen. They’re the ones spent together.

Play, Connect, Repeat

Congrats on making it to the end of this (admittedly long) post! If you’re still here, you’re serious about creating more screen-free moments with your kids, and that’s worth celebrating. Thanks for joining me on this journey to reclaim real connection, real play, and real memories.

Remember, unplugging isn’t about limiting technology, it’s about reclaiming what matters most. It’s about belly laughs, late-night fort-building, and impromptu dance parties in the living room. It’s about being present—not just physically but fully engaged in the moments that turn into lifelong memories.

That’s why The Screen-Free Dad and Global Day of Unplugging share the same mission: to help parents trade screen time for real-time, digital noise and deeper connection.

Now, it’s your turn.

Power down: Put the screens away and clear space for what truly matters.
Lean in: Play, explore, and let go of the need to “do it right.”
Reconnect: Rediscover the magic of childhood—together.

Need a little help getting started? Download a free Boredom Box guide filled with ready-to-use activity prompts, plus a printable summary of all the screen-free activities in this post to use as a quick reference: